Synthetic marijuana is believed to have been a factor in an overnight crash that injured a driver and seriously injured a passenger.

On Friday, November 03, 2018 just after 11:00 pm, the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office responded to the intersection of north US Hwy 41 and E. Boonville-New Harmony Road upon report of a crash with injury.

On-scene investigation and witness statements revealed that a red Nissan Versa had been traveling northbound on Hwy 41 prior to leaving the right side of the roadway. The vehicle entered a ditch and traveled approximately 60 yards before striking a culvert. The car became airborne before coming to rest.

The driver (later identified as Jennifer R. Dunkin) and a passenger were able to exit the vehicle. Both the driver and passenger were transported to local hospitals for treatment of injuries. The driver was wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash, but the passenger (who was more severely injured) was not. The driver complained of pain to her hips, chest and face. The passenger suffered back injuries and lacerations to her face and head.

Ms. Dunkin admitted to deputies on scene that she had consumed the synthetic cannabinoid K2 prior to driving. A small quantity of the substance was recovered from the vehicle. Although commonly referred to as "synthetic marijuana", K2 (also known as "spice") is not chemically related marijuana. K2’s effects on the brain are often more significant than those of marijuana, making the drug unpredictable and dangerous.

Pursuant to state law regarding crashes involving serious bodily injury or death, the driver consented to a post-crash blood draw. The crash will remain under investigation pending toxicology results.

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